As Morocco prepares for Thursday night’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final against France, the Kingdom has firmly dismissed social media claims questioning the Atlas Lions’ African identity.

In recent days, online posts falsely alleged that Morocco’s Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports, Mohamed Saad Berrada, had stated that the national team represented only Morocco and did not require support from the rest of Africa.

The Moroccan government has strongly rejected the reports, describing the statements as fabricated and completely false.

In an official statement, the ministry clarified that the minister had made no such comments and reaffirmed Morocco’s deep historical, cultural and political ties with the African continent.

The statement stressed that Morocco remains proud of its African identity and regards its relationship with fellow African nations as a cornerstone of the country’s national policy.

The clarification comes as Morocco carries the hopes of an entire continent into Thursday’s quarter-final against France.

The Atlas Lions are now Africa’s sole remaining representatives at the tournament after eliminating Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16. They had earlier progressed from the group stage before overcoming the Netherlands on penalties in the knockout phase.

Morocco now has the opportunity to become the first African nation to qualify for consecutive FIFA World Cup semi-finals after breaking new ground in 2022 by becoming the continent’s first semi-finalist.

Standing in their way is a formidable French side led by tournament top scorer Kylian Mbappe. France has looked dominant throughout the competition, winning all five matches while conceding only two goals.

Kick-off is scheduled for 10:00pm EAT, with the winner advancing to a semi-final showdown against either Spain or Belgium.